Deer Lake Regional Airport Announces New Porter Airlines Service to Ottawa Beginning June 2026

Deer Lake, NL – February 18^th, 2026 — Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority (DLRAA) is pleased to announce that Porter Airlines will launch five-times-weekly service between Deer Lake (YDF) and Ottawa (YOW) beginning June 10^th, 2026. This marks a significant expansion of air access for Western Newfoundland and Labrador and strengthens the airport’s role as a key transportation hub for the region.

“Expanding access to the nation’s capital supports our community, businesses, government travelers, and the tourism sector,” said Tammy Priddle, President and CEO, Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority. “Porter Airlines continues to demonstrate confidence in our market. This new route enhances connectivity for residents and visitors and aligns strongly with our long-term air access objectives. Porter Airlines service to Ottawa provides enhanced access to Porter’s growing network throughout Canada, transborder and internationally”.

Porter Airlines’ Ottawa hub offers numerous onward domestic connections, providing Western Newfoundland travelers with additional convenient routing options. The service will be operated using Porter’s Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with an elevated economy passenger experience including free wine and beer, premium snacks, no middle seats and free Wi-Fi.

“Increased air service creates more choice for travellers and greatly supports tourism. People can more readily experience the east coast charm that Western Newfoundland is known for and explore the region’s beauty. For those headed to Ottawa, this is a direct way to enjoy the National Capital Region, and also connect to Porter’s growing North American network,” said Andrew Pierce, vice president, network planning and reporting, Porter Airlines. 

Supporting Regional Growth

DLRAA’s strategic focus on air access development continues to deliver results. Passenger volumes have strengthened in recent years, supported by incremental capacity additions and sustained airline partnership growth. Additional non-stop options are expected to further support tourism, business activity, and community mobility throughout the region.

Local and regional partners welcomed the announcement as an important step forward for economic development and visitor access in Western Newfoundland and Labrador.

“The launch of a new Porter Airlines route between Deer Lake and Ottawa is a significant win for our community and region,” said Deer Lake Mayor Dean Ball. “Direct access to the nation’s capital improves travel options for residents, strengthens business and government connections, and supports tourism growth across Western Newfoundland and Labrador. We’re pleased to see continued investment that enhances our region’s connectivity.”

“This is an exciting announcement for tourism in Western Newfoundland. We know that more air access means more visitors, and Porter’s summer service into Ottawa, Toronto and Halifax give us stronger connections to two key hub markets. With flights five days a week, travellers will have easier access to our region and onward connections across Porter’s network. At the end of the day, successful air access is about keeping planes full both ways, and this is a big step forward for growing demand and visitation.” said Kristy Hoddinott, Executive Director-Go Western Newfoundland.

“The announcement of added flights from Deer Lake Regional Airport through Porter Airlines marks a significant milestone for residents, businesses, and visitors in western Newfoundland. This strategic expansion in air service offers numerous benefits that will be felt across the region, states Ray Brake, President, Greater Corner Brook Board of Trade. Additional flights are a catalyst for economic growth. Easier access supports local businesses, encourages tourism, and opens new opportunities for partnerships and investment. The tourism sector stands to benefit, as more travellers translate into increased demand for accommodations, restaurants, tours, and local attractions. The improved air service also supports resource-based industries and employers who rely on timely travel for their operations. We welcome this positive development and look forward to the continued growth and success it brings to our community.”

Service Details

• Route: Deer Lake (YDF) – Ottawa (YOW)
• Frequency: 5x weekly
• Start Date: June 10^th, 2026
• Aircraft: Embraer E195-E2
• Booking: Available at www.flyporter.com

About Deer Lake Regional Airport

Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF) is the second-busiest airport in Newfoundland and Labrador and plays a critical role in the province’s transportation network. The airport supportsover $300 million in economic output, 1,400 jobs, and serves as the primary air gateway to Western Newfoundland’s residents, industries, nd tourism destinations.

Media Contact

Tammy Priddle
President and CEO
709-635-3601 | 709-632-3763
[email protected]